An Investigation into the Effects of Dysmenorrhea on Kinesiophobia among Young Adult Females.

Abstract

Dysmenorrhea, or painful menstruation, is one of the most prevalent gynaecological conditions affecting young adult females worldwide, with a global pooled prevalence of approximately 71%. Despite its significant physical and psychological burden, the psychological dimensions of dysmenorrhea remain insufficiently studied, particularly within the Indian context. This study investigated the effects of dysmenorrhea on kinesiophobia (fear of movement) among young adult females aged 18-26 years residing in Jammu district, India, grounded in the Fear-Avoidance Model of pain and the biopsychosocial framework. A quantitative, correlational research design was employed with a purposive sample of 160 participants. Menstrual pain severity was measured using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) and fear of movement using the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK-17). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation via SPSS. Results revealed that 58.1% of participants reported severe dysmenorrhea (NRS 7– 10), with an overall mean NRS score of 6.60. Clinically meaningful kinesiophobia was present in 95% of participants with a mean TSK-17 score of 44.17 seven points above the clinical threshold. Pearson correlation analysis indicated a significant positive association between dysmenorrhea severity and kinesiophobia (r = .36, p < .001) confirmed that pain severity significantly predicted kinesiophobia. Findings are consistent with the predictions of the Fear-Avoidance Model and underscore the need for psychological screening and biopsychosocial management approaches in dysmenorrhea care.